Public warned about ‘cheap’ drones for sale online

The public are being warned that online shopping websites are being utilised by fraudsters to advertise non-existent drones of various specifications for competitive prices.

Drones are personal flying devices that often carry cameras and can be navigated remotely by smartphones or hand-held controllers.

Action Fraud, the national fraud and cyber crime reporting centre, say fraudsters are capitalising on their recent popularity and advertising non-existent drones at a lower value than their recommended retail price to tempt buyers.

After victims agree to purchase the drone, the fraudsters request payment to be paid via bank transfer, saying that it will quicken the delivery process.

After transferring the money the buyers never receive the drone and the fraudster blocks the victim to prevent further conversation.

How to protect yourself:

Check the validity of the post.

Avoid paying by bank transfer and instead use an online payment option such as PayPal, which helps to protect you.

Check feedback online by searching the associated phone numbers or email addresses of the seller. Feedback will give you useful information about recent transactions other buyers may have made.

If the item is below market value consider whether this is an opportunity too good to be true.

If you have been affected by this, or any other scam, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040, or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

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